San Francisco is one of those cities that steal your heart the moment you lay eyes upon it. It’s original, it’s awe-inspiring, it’s heartwarming. It’s specific, in more ways than one, and not in small part due to its world-renowned landmarks. Some, like Golden Gate Bridge, are the pinnacle of human ingenuity. Others, like the Museum of Modern Art – a testimony to mankind’s creativity. These grand monuments are what give the city its uniqueness. However, it’s the hidden gems of San Francisco that give it a soul. And, that’s why Verified Movers created this list – to help you experience The Golden City to its fullest after moving here. So, brace yourselves because some of these locales make even born-and-raised San Franciscans raise an eyebrow.
San Francisco – at the palm of your hand
The first thing you should do after best cross country movers California has delivered your belongings is… Well, ok, obviously, it’s unpacking and settling in. But, immediately after that, jump in a car or the 37-Corbett bus, and head straight for the Twin Peaks.
Choose a clear day when visiting Twin Peaks and you’ll be in for a visual treat!
Now, we know what you may think. Twin Peaks hardly count as hidden gems of San Francisco. After all, they are 922 feet tall hills, smack in the middle of the city. Kinda hard to miss them. And – you’re right. They are a popular destination, both for tourists and locals. However, most people coming here don’t even bother climbing to the very top. And, wow, are they missing out!
From the top of either peak, you’ll have the most magnificent view of San Francisco. The whole city, laid right in front of your feet. To the North, you can see The Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Market Street, and the downtown, with its newest landmark, Salesforce Tower. To the west – the most amazing view of the Pacific Ocean and Golden Gate Park. Turn eastward, toward San Francisco Bay, and let Bay Bridge, Oakland, and towering Mt. Diablo greet you like an old friend.
The look from atop Twin Peaks is, definitely, a phenomenal experience. Just be sure you pick a clear day, for the best view possible.
“If you’re going to (this part of) San Francisco, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair!”
And, now, for some traveling! Don’t, you won’t need long distance moving companies San Francisco has to help you get there. You’ll be traveling through time – right back to the era of “peace, love, and happiness.” That’s right, you’re going back to the sixties. And, you don’t even have to leave San Francisco! All you need to do is head to the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. Or, as people usually call it, the “Hippie Quarter” or just “The Haight.”
San Francisco’s Hippie Quarter hides many secrets.
Bordering the eastern side of Golden Gate Park, The Haight is one of, if not, the most vibrant part of San Francisco. Wherever you turn to, there’s an explosion of lively colors. From the facades of victorian homes to grandiose murals and masterful graffiti – everything here is a true eye-candy.
Still, it’s not all about the looks here, either – but about substance, too. In the Hippie Quarter, you’ll find houses of some of the world’s most famous musicians from the sixties. Jimmy Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jefferson Airplane, The Grateful Dead – artists who shaped the musical taste of an entire generation lived here at one point. Also, don’t miss the chance to visit a mansion at 737 Buena Vista West. It’s where Jack London wrote one of the most beloved books ever, the White Fang.
The Haight is definitely a must-visit, whether you’re a music lover, a free soul, or simply want something different and unique to see.
Stairway(s) to Heaven
If you’re in for some treasure-hunting after cross country moving companies San Francisco helped you settle, you’ll love these next attractions. These hidden gems of San Francisco even long-term residents don’t know exist. And, it’s no wonder. They are quite easy to miss. Unless that is, you know exactly what you’re looking for and how to look for them. These are the not-so-famous tiled steps of San Francisco. You can find them in three locations, two of which are in the same area:
- 16th Avenue Tiled Steps can be found at, as the name suggests, 16th Avenue. These are the oldest and most intricate of the three. Mosaic covering each step tells a different story. Yet, they all combine to create a larger, breathtaking picture.
- Just a short walk from there, at the intersection of 16th Avenue and Lawton St, you’ll find the Hidden Garden Steps. However, as you approach, they’ll look like another ordinary set of steps, as you’ll see them from the top. It’s not until you get to the base, and look up, that they reveal their beauty of floral motifs.
The last set of hidden steps is at 32nd Ave, right next to Lincoln Park. So, naturally, they got the name Lincoln Park Steps. These are the most popular of the three, so you can expect some more adventurists here.
Sutro Baths are another one in the long line of hidden gems of San Francisco.
However, they’re quite the walk from the first two. Therefore, it’s better to visit them on a separate occasion, as the Park itself has a lot more attractions. Also, it hides not one – but two more little-known gems on its outskirts: Lands End Labyrinth and Sutro Baths.
Awaken the adventurer within and find more hidden gems of San Francisco
What we noted here is just a tiny portion of what San Francisco offers. The city hides so many amazing places, it would take you a lifetime to find it all. But, that certainly doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try! After all, finding any of the hidden gems of San Francisco is a thrilling experience.